Felinae

The Felinae are a subfamily within the cat family, Felidae, comprising 29 species of cats found worldwide, except for Antarctica. These cats are often referred to as "small cats" and are distinguished from the "big cats" (subfamily Pantherinae) by their ossified hyoid bones, which prevent them from roaring. This group includes well-known species such as the domestic cat, cheetah, puma, jaguarundi, and various lynx species.123

Felinae species inhabit diverse environments but are typically found in woodlands. They are carnivorous mammals with sharp, retractable claws, except for the cheetah. Most have patterned coats, though some are uniformly colored. Cats are known for their agility, keen senses of sight and hearing, and grooming habits. They communicate through vocalizations like purring, snarling, and howling, though they are often silent.1